October is full of superstition and celebration with the traditional symbol of Halloween, the pumpkin, taking centre stage on almost every doorstep across the country. But why? The reason for this plentiful fall gourd playing such a large part in our Halloween festivities stems back to the 19th century and an old Irish legend about a man named Stingy Jack. Legend states that Stingy Jack was a trickster who had fooled the devil on several occasions and was finally dealt with by being banished i...

The Great Taste of Ontario has launched its first season of passports and itineraries, and Brantford is featured as one of the best spots in the province to dine and explore! Learn about trip ideas and local stories to fall in love with Ontario again and again. Each season, you can download one of over 80 passports (we recommend the Brantford one, of course!) to help guide your planning. When you’re ready, take the time to safely visit our growers and makers who make Ontario so special. E...

We crave connection in our lives. In a time where travelling, socializing and being physically close is discouraged, people are experimenting with new ways to connect with their friends, family, coworkers and customers. Check out these virtual platforms to connect with others in the comfort of your own home, office, or remote location. Some are simple and beginner-savvy, while others are more advanced. FaceTime Apple developed this feature for video and audio calling on their iPhone, iPad, iP...

Canadian Women and Sport is now accepting applications for the WISE Fund Grant. Funded by the Government of Canada, this grant is to build capacity for gender equity within organizations and support them to expand quality opportunities for girls and women to participate and lead in sport. With the support of Sport Canada, the 2021 WISE Fund will grant 30 organizations $2,500 to advance gender equality in Canadian sport. Who is eligible? Organizations and/or initiatives that help keep girls ...

Earlier this month, the provincial government announced that it would invest $9 million through the new Reconnect Festival and Event Program to support municipalities and event organizers during COVID-19.  This funding will be used to maintain public safety requirements and allow people to reconnect with their communities through online, drive-through, and other innovative experiences. Organizers will be developing creative programs such as virtual Remembrance Day events, reverse holiday p...

Each year on November 11, the City of Brantford joins fellow Canadians in honoring the sacrifice and courage of those who fought to preserve the freedom of our nation during times of war, armed conflict and peace. We gather to remember, with reverence and gratitude, the importance of their sacrifices to our community and worldwide. This year, due to COVID-19, gathering restrictions will need to remain in place. The 2020 Brantford Remembrance Day services have been adapted to ensure the saf...

We’ve compiled a list of some of our favourite coffee shops, cafés and tearooms in Brantford! Whether you’re looking for hot, iced or plant-based drinks, or local supplies for brewing at home – we have you covered. Did we forget one of your favourite spots? Share them in the comments below! The Blue Dog Café | 199 Brant Ave | 519-512-0022 The Blue Dog Café is a beloved local café that serves up freshly brewed coffee and tea, all day breakfast and l...